Steelers defense gets off to a fast start

With Ben Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown out this week because of injuries, the Steelers could use a strong performance from their defense to beat the Browns.

So far, so good. Linebacker Lawrence Timmons returned an interception 53 yards to end the first Browns possession of the game and give the Steelers a 7-0 lead in Cleveland. It’s Timmons’ team-leading third pick of the year and the first interception return for a touchdown for the Steelers this season.

The drive didn’t get off to such a great start for the defense. Brandon Weeden hit Josh Gordon for 26 yards on the first play, which ended with safety Ryan Clark being attended to by the medical staff. Weeden was almost picked by Will Allen two plays later, though, and Clark was back on the field when Timmons came up with the pick.

It’s the 13 interception on the year for Weeden, who will now need to try to rally the Browns out of an early hole.